Gabriela Bryan and Jordy Smith Win 2025 Surf City El Salvador Pro

Bryan’s Redemption Run To Victory Moves Her To World No. 2
Nichols Earns First Finals Appearance of 2025
Smith Prevails in All-South African Final to Earn Seventh CT Win
McGillivray Earns First Career CT Final to Rise 14 Spots to World No. 13

Pictured: The winners of the 2025 Surf City El Salvador Pro, Jordy Smith (RSA) and Gabriela Bryan (HAW). Credit: WSL / Aaron Hughes

PUNTA ROCA, La Libertad, El Salvador (Saturday, April 12, 2025) – Today, Gabriela Bryan (HAW) and Jordy Smith (RSA) won the Surf City El Salvador Pro, Stop No. 4 of the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour (CT). Bryan claimed victory over CT veteran Isabella Nichols (AUS), while Smith secured his seventh CT win against fellow South African Matthew McGillivray (RSA). Today’s finalist fought through longer lulls and capitalized on four-to-six-foot sets at Punta Roca, also known as La Punta or Punta Chilama.

Bryan’s Redemption Run To Victory, Now Jumps To World No. 2

Today, Gabriela Bryan (HAW) secured back-to-back Surf City El Salvador Finals appearances and the second CT victory of her career. 2022 Rookie of the Year Bryan continues to establish herself among the world’s best. Her first win at the 2024 Western Australia Margaret River Pro and recent runner-up finish at the MEO Rip Curl Pro Portugal put her on the list of contenders to watch. The now 23-year-old moves into the World No. 2 spot on the rankings in search of making her maiden Final 5.

“That was such an insane rollercoaster Final,” said Bryan. “I made some mistakes, but I was just thinking, ‘Please give me one more wave, and I won’t mess it up.’ I’m feeling so good. I’ve had an amazing time in El Salvador, and I love it here. Right-hand point breaks are my favorite, and this is one of the best in the world. Getting to compete at it is amazing, and the crew I’m surrounded with is the best. Everyone back at home supporting me, I love you guys, and thank you El Salvador for the best time.”

The opening exchange in the first five minutes of the Final provided an open wall for Bryan to open up on her aggressive forehand and post a 6.50 (out of a possible 10). Isabella Nichols (AUS) was right behind her on a solid Punta Roca set of her own to blast multiple forehand gauges and searing carves to post a 6.57.

Bryan’s backup was enough to hold her lead over Nichols before an exchange provided Nichols an opportunity to strike back. A disastrous board buckle for Bryan forced her to change out boards as Nichols’ score dropped, and it was enough to take the Australian to the lead. Punta Roca delivered another pristine set for both competitors to attack once more, and Bryan took full advantage of the gem presented to her, belting multiple power gauges to post a 7.83 and overtake the lead. The ocean played in Bryan’s favor as a final lull didn’t provide any more opportunities before the final horn sounded.

In a rematch of their 2024 Surf City El Salvador Pro Semifinal Bryan eliminated reigning World Champion Caity Simmers (USA) again to advance to the Final. Simmers opened her matchup with Bryan with the highest score of the heat and later found herself on one of the biggest sets of the day. Bryan’s power surfing prevailed over the reigning World Champion.

Nichols Earns First Finals Appearance of 2025

Isabella Nichols (AUS) has had mixed results to start her fourth year on Tour. Nichols battled through every heat to earn her first Finals appearance of the season. Nichols’ previous Finals appearance was her win at the 2022 Margaret River Pro, where she defeated today’s event winner and then Rookie Gabriela Bryan (HAW). Throughout the 2025 El Salvador Pro, Nichols’s success has proven to be bittersweet as she had to miss her twin sister’s wedding. Today, Nichols defeated Molly Picklum (AUS) to ignite her push to the Final. She will look to continue her momentum into the Aussie Treble as she is now ranked World No. 7.

“I love coming back here. The people are amazing, and the waves are beautiful,” said Nichols. “ It’s just an incredible part of the world, and I just have so many people to thank. Especially my family for understanding that this is part of the job, and I was there in spirit. It’s been super worthwhile, and it’s been such a great week.”

Smith Prevails in All-South African Final to Earn Seventh CT Win

Jordy Smith’s (RSA) remarkable career spans 18 years among the world’s best on the CT, and now he has earned his seventh career CT victory over fellow South African Matthew McGillivray— a historic, all-South African final in the modern era. The 37-year-old’s impactful career includes multiple wins at right-hand point breaks, with two victories at his home break of Jeffreys Bay, Bells Beach, and now El Salvador’s Punta Roca. Smith now sits at No. 5 on the rankings, and looks to maintain his pace toward entering another World Title race.

In the Final, the first exchange came only moments after the horn sounded, and Smith wasted no time showcasing his powerful form to post a 7.33 (out of a possible 10) over McGillivray, who fell on his opening maneuver. Smith backed up his strong start and held a commanding lead heading into the back half of the Final. McGillivray was able to respond and get in the heat with a 5.00, but as time dwindled, Smith found another Punta Roca wall that allowed him to showcase more of his powerful style and post a 6.93 to take even more control and ultimately the victory.

“I think just for South Africa in general, this means a lot. I can’t believe it, to be honest,” said Smith. “If I could dedicate this to two people. My wife, and all the wives and husbands who let us do this, it means the world to me. And to my father. I wanted to ride my father’s board in this Final and win on it, and to do it is incredible. I just kept telling myself you can do it, you’re going to do it. It’s just four more waves, and you’re going to do it. It’s just so hard to take it all, it’s been so long. And I’m just happy to do it with another fellow South African. I can’t say enough good words about Matthew [McGillivray]. He’s a long-time friend and to share a Final with him is really, really special.”

McGillivray Earns First Career CT Final to Rise 14 Spots to World No. 13

Today, Matthew McGillivray (RSA) earned his first career Final since joining the Tour in 2021. The 28-year-old moved up 14 spots, and is now ranked World No. 13 heading into the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach.

McGillivray had a quick start in his Semifinal match against Crosby Colapinto (USA) with an 8.17 (out of a possible 10). In the final minutes, Colapinto had a chance to elevate his score when he found himself getting barrelled three times on one wave, but McGillivray’s heat total put him in a position to still need a second score.

“I love it here in El Salvador. I love right-hand point breaks, and it’s been a fun event,” McGillivray said. “Thanks to everyone for the support, and it’s been so good to be here. It’s been a long event and I can’t believe I’m in the Final. I’ve just been trying to surf smart heats and be selective and do my best surfing. I think I still have more to give, and I think everyone feels that way, and hopefully, that can come out now.”

Ferreira, Dora, and Ewing Clear Mid-season Cut Heading to Aussie Treble

An incredible week of high-performance showdowns and world-class surfing from current World No. 1 Italo Ferreira (BRA), No. 2 Ethan Ewing (AUS), and No. 3 Yago Dora (BRA) pushed them through a blistering week of competition. Their respective Quarterfinal finishes were enough to secure them into the second half of the season and clear of the Mid-season Cut in hopes of finishing in the Top 5 for their opportunity at the 2025 World Title.

For highlights from the 2025 Surf City El Salvador Pro, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.

Surf City El Salvador Pro Women’s Final Results:
1 – Gabriela Bryan (HAW) 14.33
2 – Isabella Nichols (AUS) 11.74

Surf City El Salvador Pro Men’s Final Results:
1 – Jordy Smith (RSA) 14.26
2 – Matthew McGillivray (RSA) 9.33

Surf City El Salvador Pro Women’s Semifinal Results:
HEAT 1: Gabriela Bryan (HAW) 10.16 DEF. Caitlin Simmers (USA) 9.67
HEAT 2: Isabella Nichols (AUS) 13.33 DEF. Molly Picklum (AUS) 8.27

Surf City El Salvador Pro Men’s Semifinal Results:
HEAT 1: Matthew McGillivray (RSA) 13.84 DEF. Crosby Colapinto (USA) 9.50
HEAT 2: Jordy Smith (RSA) 15.67 DEF. Cole Houshmand (USA) 10.00

Next Stop: Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach Presented by Bonsoy
The next stop on the 2025 Championship Tour will be the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach Presented by Bonsoy. The Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach will hold a competition window from Friday, April 18, through Monday, April 28, 2025. The competition will be broadcast LIVE on WorldSurfLeague.com, and the free WSL App. Check out more ways to watch from the WSL’s broadcast partners.

Full final story coming…above
Finals Day Live Started at Saturday 7:03 a.m. CST (3am HI Time)
Today’s Schedule: Women’s and Men’s Semifinals, Women’s and Men’s Finals

Pictured: Last year, Caity Simmers (USA) was eliminated by Gabriela Bryan (HAW) in the Surf City El Salvador Pro Semifinal. Today, they will meet again in the Semifinal. Credit: WSL / Aaron Hughes

PUNTA ROCA, La Libertad, El Salvador (Friday, April 11, 2025) – Finals Day for Stop No. 4 of the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour (CT), the Surf City El Salvador Pro, is ON starting at 7:03 a.m. CST today. The Semifinalists will compete in six-to-eight foot surf at Punta Roca. The competition will start with the women’s and men’s Semifinals, and women’s and men’s Finals, all with 40-minute heats.

Finals Day will kick off with a rematch of the 2024 Surf City El Salvador Pro Semifinal featuring current World No. 1 Caity Simmers (USA) and Gabriela Bryan (HAW). Bryan went on to the Final where she faced eventual event winner Caroline Marks (USA). In the Yellow Jersey, Simmers will seek redemption as she looks to earn her seventh CT event win. While Bryan hopes to continue the momentum from her stellar Quarterfinal performance that earned her the highest heat total of the event with a 17.40 (out of a possible 20).

Current World No. 2 Molly Picklum (AUS) will meet CT veteran Isabella Nichols (AUS) in Semifinal 2. Picklum earned her fourth consecutive Finals Day appearance, and has her eyes on securing her first CT win of the season. Following her Quarterfinal performance, Nichols has achieved her best result of the season. She’ll look to earn her second CT win of her career.

Following the completion of the women’s Semifinals, the men’s Semifinals will take to Punta Roca. CT veteran 37-year-old Jordy Smith (RSA) and fellow South African Matthew McGillivray (RSA) have earned their best results of the year with their Finals Day appearances. Smith will look to earn his seventh CT win. While 28-year-old McGillivray aims to secure his first CT win of his career.

First, they’ll have to take on the duo from San Clemente, Calif. in the Semifinals, Cole Houshmand (USA) and 2024 Rookie of the Year Crosby Colapinto (USA). Smith will take on Houshmand and McGillivray will face Colapinto. This will be Houshmand’s second Finals Day appearance of his career since winning the 2024 Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach. Colapinto missed the first two events of the year due to an elbow injury, and returned to the Tour in Portugal where he was eliminated in the Round of 32. Today will be his first Finals Day of the season as he aims to earn his first CT win.

For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.

Surf City El Salvador Pro Women’s Semifinal Matchups:
HEAT 1: Caitlin Simmers (USA) vs. Gabriela Bryan (HAW)
HEAT 2: Molly Picklum (AUS) vs. Isabella Nichols (AUS)Surf City El Salvador Pro Men’s Semifinal Matchups:
HEAT 1: Matthew McGillivray (RSA) vs. Crosby Colapinto (USA)
HEAT 2: Jordy Smith (RSA) vs. Cole Houshmand (USA)

PRIOR UPDATES BELOW
Finals Day Matchups Set in Pumping Punta Roca Conditions at Surf City El Salvador Pro
Momentum Continues for World No. 1 Caity Simmers
Gabriela Bryan Prepares for Back-to-Back Finals Days
McGillivray, Smith, and San Clemente Duo Rise Through Rankings
Finals Day Call: Saturday, April 12 at 6:45 a.m. CST For Possible 7:30 a.m. Start (330am HI time)

Pictured: Gabriela Bryan (HAW) earned the highest heat total of the event to advance to the Surf City El Salvador Pro Semifinal. Credit: WSL / Emma Sharon

PUNTA ROCA, La Libertad, El Salvador (Friday, April 11, 2025) – A big day of competition at Stop No. 4 of the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour (CT) determined tomorrow’s Finals Day matchups. The day started with the men’s Round of 16, followed by the completion of the women’s and men’s Quarterfinals. The anticipated swell finally arrived at Punta Roca with six-to-eight-foot surf, and the world’s best rose to the occasion. Tomorrow will crown the 2025 Surf City El Salvador Pro winners.

The women’s Quarterfinal matchups eagerly waited for their chance to take on Punta Roca. Today they finally had their opportunity to showcase their best to earn a spot in the Semifinal. Current World No. 1 Caity Simmers (USA) and 2025 MEO Rip Curl Pro Portugal event runner-up Gabriela Bryan (HAW) continue their momentum alongside Molly Picklum (AUS) and Isabella Nichols (AUS). Heading into Finals Day, Bryan is fresh off earning the highest heat total of the event, and Nichols achieves best result of the year. While Picklum keeps her streak alive by securing a fourth consecutive Semifinal, and Simmers looks for second CT win of the year.

Today featured key performances in the men’s Round of 16 and Quarterfinals to decide who will advance to the Semifinals. Californians Crosby Colapinto (USA) and Cole Houshmand (USA) and South African duo Matthew McGillivray (RSA) and Jordy Smith (RSA) all earned their first Finals Day appearances of the season.

Momentum Continues for World No. 1 Caity Simmers

To start the women’s Quarterfinals, current World No. 1 and reigning World Champion Caity Simmers (USA) showcased her style and precision on the running right of Punta Roca with a 7.57 (out of a possible 10). 2024 Rookie of the Year Sawyer Lindblad (USA) capitalized on her signature backhand attack looking to match Simmers. In her final opportunity, Simmers provided another gem to seal the heat and earn her third Semifinal showing of the year.

“It feels nice to surf against Sawyer [Lindblad]. Since we kind of grew up surfing together, that was the ideal situation just for there to be a bunch of waves for us both,” said Simmers. “I was looking for a cleaner wave, and it ended up working out. To beat Sawyer, you have to surf good, and I’m happy I was able to do that. I haven’t surfed out here every time just because it’s kind of crazy to hop across these rocks each time. We’ve just been surfing everywhere around here.”

Gabriela Bryan Prepares for Back-to-Back Finals Days

Quarterfinal Heat 2 featured a back and forth battle between 2024 event runner-up Gabriela Bryan (HAW) and Rookie Bella Kenworthy (USA). Bryan secured the first nine-point ride of the event with a 9.23 after both pushed excellent numbers early in the heat to set the tone. Bryan earned a runner-up finish at the MEO Rip Curl Pro Portugal and will look to do one better in El Salvador.

In their matchup, the first to go excellent was Bryan who posted an 8.17, and Kenworthy bested her with an 8.50 on multiple gauges in critical sections. Bryan’s highest heat total of the event, a 17.40 (out of a possible 20), was too much for Kenworthy to overcome as the ocean went dormant to end their showdown.

“That wave was the best present ever. There was one wave before, but I saw the second one behind it so glad I waited,” Bryan said. “As soon as I went over the first wave I saw it had the most perfect line. I’m going to take off on this thing, and do the biggest carve on this first section. I’m so glad I completed it. To see everyone cheering, Connor [O’Leary] and Leo [Fioravanti] just with their hands up I was so stoked. You do want to impress the judges, but I also like to put a show on for everybody, and show the world the surfing I can do.”

Isabella Nichols (AUS) eliminated Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW) to complete the women’s Quarterfinal. 27-year-old Nichols secures her best result of the season to move on to her first Semifinal appearance of the year. Nichols’ success in El Salvador is bittersweet as she misses her twin sister, Helena’s, wedding and shows what it takes to compete amongst the world’s best.

“As athletes and anyone really working on the road, there’s sacrifices that you have to make, and this one was probably the biggest sacrifice I’ve had to make,” said Nichols. “My parents, my sister, George, and everyone at home, I just wanted to say I hope you have the most wonderful day today.

“I’m dedicating this one to you, Helena. I was sitting out there when there was a big lull. I was like, ‘She’s doing this for me. She’s sending me this lull, and it’s all working out as it should.’ I’m gonna be there in spirit, and I just want you to know that I love you so, so, so damn much and I just can’t wait to give you the biggest hug.”

Current World No. 2 Molly Picklum (AUS) and former event Quarterfinalist Brisa Hennessy (CRC) dealt with a slow start in their matchup before Picklum’s 6.17 set the scale. Hennessy’s slim lead was soon cut down. One last exchange at the buzzer gave Hennessy an opportunity, but the wave let her down. The 22-year-old Picklum earns her way to a fourth consecutive Semifinal.

McGillivray, Smith, and San Clemente Duo Rise Through Rankings

Today’s heats featured major shake ups across the live rankings, including Matthew McGillivray’s (RSA) breakthrough performances in the Round of 16 and Quarterfinals elevating him 13 spots to current World No. 14. Jordy Smith (RSA) moves into the Top 10 with his wins over Leonardo Fioravanti (ITA) and Italo Ferreira (BRA). While Crosby Colapinto (USA) jumps up nine spots, and Cole Houshmand (USA) lands himself into current World No. 12.

Jordy Smith (RSA) opened his matchup against Yellow Jersey Italo Ferreira (BRA) with the first excellent score of the men’s Quarterfinals with an 8.67. Smith continued to make statements to maintain the lead over the 2019 World Champion and eliminate Ferreira from competition.

“Well, I started off in the wrong rashie (laughs). Then I just started off the bat, I wanted to push him a little deeper for the first wave and he got the five so that left me waiting out the back with priority,” said Smith. “I started with an 8.67 and that’s what you have to do. You have to put pressure on them and knew with inconsistency [in the swell], if I could put up big scores that was going to add pressure to him.”

To kick off the men’s Quarterfinals, Smith’s compatriot Matthew McGillivray (RSA) defeated 2024 event runner-up Yago Dora (BRA). Earlier today, McGillivray also eliminated Rookie Marco Mignot (FRA) in the Round of 16 to keep his El Salvador Pro campaign alive. McGillivray advances to his first Finals Day of the 2025 season.

“Stoked to make it through. Obviously Yago [Dora] is someone I’ve really looked up to my whole surfing career. It was really cool to surf with him in a heat,” said McGillivray. “It was a little bit slow out there on the high tide, like on dead high. I knew I had to be super selective and I’m just grateful that I was in rhythm with the ocean there on the waves.”

After missing the first two events of the year due to an elbow injury, 23-year-old Crosby Colapinto (USA) earns his first Semifinal appearance of the year over World Title contender Ethan Ewing (AUS). In the final moments of their match, 26-year-old Ewing had a chance to elevate his score after Colapinto decided to not use his priority. Current World No. 3 Ewing was unable to find the completion to surpass current World No. 25 Colapinto.

Fellow Southern Californian Cole Houshmand (USA) defeated CT Veteran Miguel Pupo (BRA) for the remaining spot in the men’s Semifinals. Houshmand maintained a solid lead over Pupo for a majority of the matchup, and earned his best result of the year. Houshmand jumps ten spots in the live rankings to current World No. 12 with today’s performance.

The last call for the Surf City El Salvador Pro will be tomorrow morning, Saturday, April 10 at 6:45 a.m. CST for a possible 7:03 a.m. start. For highlights from today’s competition, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.

Surf City El Salvador Pro Men’s Round of 16 Results:
HEAT 1: Yago Dora (BRA) 13.17 DEF. Connor O’Leary (JPN) 8.84
HEAT 2: Matthew McGillivray (RSA) 12.33 DEF. Marco Mignot (FRA) 9.17
HEAT 3: Ethan Ewing (AUS) 14.76 DEF. Joao Chianca (BRA) 9.33
HEAT 4: Crosby Colapinto (USA) 13.00 DEF. George Pittar (AUS) 11.50
HEAT 5: Italo Ferreira (BRA) 14.26 DEF. Ramzi Boukhiam (MAR) 10.76
HEAT 6: Jordy Smith (RSA) 14.93 DEF. Leonardo Fioravanti (ITA) 14.33
HEAT 7: Cole Houshmand (USA) 14.33 DEF. Alejo Muniz (BRA) 14.33
HEAT 8: Miguel Pupo (BRA) 15.33 DEF. Alan Cleland (MEX) 10.83Surf City El Salvador Pro Men’s Quarterfinal Results:
HEAT 1: Matthew McGillivray (RSA) 12.60 DEF. Yago Dora (BRA) 11.00
HEAT 2: Crosby Colapinto (USA) 14.43 DEF. Ethan Ewing (AUS) 11.47
HEAT 3: Jordy Smith (RSA) 13.90 DEF. Italo Ferreira (BRA) 9.77
HEAT 4: Cole Houshmand (USA) 11.50 DEF. Miguel Pupo (BRA) 5.97Surf City El Salvador Pro Men’s Semifinal Matchups:
HEAT 1: Matthew McGillivray (RSA) vs. Crosby Colapinto (USA)
HEAT 2: Jordy Smith (RSA) vs. Cole Houshmand (USA)Surf City El Salvador Pro Women’s Quarterfinal Results:
HEAT 1: Caitlin Simmers (USA) 14.34 DEF. Sawyer Lindblad (USA) 12.90
HEAT 2: Gabriela Bryan (HAW) 17.40 DEF. Bella Kenworthy (USA) 15.67
HEAT 3: Molly Picklum (AUS) 12.34 DEF. Brisa Hennessy (CRC) 10.26
HEAT 4: Isabella Nichols (AUS) 13.77 DEF. Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW) 11.33 Surf City El Salvador Pro Women’s Semifinal Matchups:
HEAT 1: Caitlin Simmers (USA) vs. Gabriela Bryan (HAW)
HEAT 2: Molly Picklum (AUS) vs. Isabella Nichols (AUS)

Watch LIVE
The Surf City El Salvador Pro will hold a competition window through Saturday, April 12, 2025. The event will be broadcast LIVE on WorldSurfLeague.com and the free WSL App. Check out more ways to watch from the WSL’s broadcast partners.

PRIOR UPDATES BELOW…
Men’s Round of 16 Called ON at Surf City El Salvador Pro
Competition Started at 7:03 a.m. CST (3:03am HI Time)
Followed by Women’s Quarterfinals and Men’s Quarterfinals
Men’s and Women’s Finals Day Tomorrow
Watch Live at WorldSurfLeague.com
Prior updates below…

Pictured: The Surf City El Salvador Pro called ON with the men’s Round of 16, followed by the women’s Quarterfinal and men’s Quarterfinal. Connor O’Leary (JPN) will face Yago Dora (BRA) in Heat 1 of the men’s Round of 16 today. Credit: WSL / Aaron Hughes

PUNTA ROCA, La Libertad, El Salvador (Friday, April 11, 2025) – Stop No. 4 of the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour (CT), Surf City El Salvador Pro, , is ON with six-to-eight foot surf at Punta Roca. The men’s Round of 16 will start at 7:03 a.m. CST with 35-minute heats to determine who advances onto the Quarterfinal. The women’s Quarterfinal and men’s Quarterfinal are on schedule to follow.

Finals Day spots are on the line starting with the men’s Round of 16 matchups. Up first, 2024 event runner-up Yago Dora (BRA) and Connor O’Leary (JPN) in a battle of backhand attacks.

Matthew McGillivray (RSA) will make his first Round of 16 appearance of the year in Heat 2 against Round of 32 standout Marco Mignot (FRA). Followed by World Title contenders Ethan Ewing (AUS) and João Chianca (BRA). Chianca will look to earn his first Quarterfinal appearance of the year with a heat win.

Current World No. 1 Italo Ferreira (BRA) looks to keep his dominant 2025 season going by earning a fourth consecutive Quarterfinal, but first he must overcome Morocco’s powerhouse of Ramzi Boukhiam (MAR). The last Round of 16 matchup will feature Rookie sensation Alan Cleland Jr. (MEX) and CT veteran Miguel Pupo (BRA) to see who earns a spot in the Quarterfinal.

Following the men’s Round of 16 action, the women’s Quarterfinal will take on Punta Roca. Starting with current World No. 1 and reigning World Champion, Caity Simmers (USA) and 2024 Rookie of the Year Sawyer Lindblad (USA).

Then Rookie Bella Kenworthy (USA) will take on 2024 event runner-up Gabriela Bryan (HAW). Kenworthy looks for her first Semifinal appearance of the 2025 season while Bryan aims for her third consecutive Semifinal.

A battle of the 2024 World Title contenders between Molly Picklum (AUS) and Brisa Hennessy (CRC) will unravel in Quarterfinal 3. Picklum eyes her fourth consecutive Semifinal showing, but must overcome Hennessy, who needs a big result to kickstart her year. To complete the women’s Quarterfinal and decide the remaining spot in the Semifinal, Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW) will take on Isabella Nichols (AUS). Johnson will look to advance onto her first Semifinal of the year. While Nichols aims to secure her best result of the season by moving on to the next round.

Surf City El Salvador Pro Men’s Round of 16 Matchups:
HEAT 1: Yago Dora (BRA) vs. Connor O’Leary (JPN)
HEAT 2: Matthew McGillivray (RSA) vs. Marco Mignot (FRA)
HEAT 3: Ethan Ewing (AUS) vs. João Chianca (BRA)
HEAT 4: Crosby Colapinto (USA) vs. George Pittar (AUS)
HEAT 5: Italo Ferreira (BRA) vs. Ramzi Boukhiam (MAR)
HEAT 6: Jordy Smith (RSA) vs. Leonardo Fioravanti (ITA)
HEAT 7: Alejo Muniz (BRA) vs. Cole Houshmand (USA)
HEAT 8: Miguel Pupo (BRA) vs. Alan Cleland (MEX)Surf City El Salvador Pro Women’s Quarterfinal Matchups:
HEAT 1: Caitlin Simmers (USA) vs. Sawyer Lindblad (USA)
HEAT 2: Gabriela Bryan (HAW) vs. Bella Kenworthy (USA)
HEAT 3: Molly Picklum (AUS) vs. Brisa Hennessy (CRC)
HEAT 4: Isabella Nichols (AUS) vs. Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW)

PRIOR UPDATES BELOW…

Big Upsets Shakeup Men’s CT Leaderboard at Surf City El Salvador ProBuzzer Beaters From McGillivray, C. Colapinto, and Muniz in Men’s Round of 32
Rookies Cleland Jr., Mignot, and Pittar Advance To Round of 16
Next Call: Friday, April 11 at 6:45 a.m. CST For Possible 7:03 a.m. Start (3AM HI Time)

Pictured: Rookie Marco Mignot (FRA) eliminated Rio Waida (INA) to advance on to the Round of 16 at the Surf City El Salvador Pro. Credit: WSL / Aaron Hughes

PUNTA ROCA, La Libertad, El Salvador (Thursday, April 10, 2025) – After two days off to wait for a building swell, the world’s best returned to Punta Roca for the Surf City El Salvador Pro to complete the men’s Round of 32. With only three events remaining until the Mid-season Cut, today’s competition provided ranking shakeups heading into the final two days of the event window. In four-to-five foot surf, the men’s Round of 32 featured buzzer beaters, World Title contender upsets, former event winners falling out of the draw, and Rookies prevailing onto the Round of 16. The next call will be tomorrow morning, Friday, April 11 at 6:45 a.m. CST for a possible 7:03 a.m. start.

Today’s notable performances at Stop No. 4 of the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour (CT) included two-time World Champion Filipe Toledo (BRA) falling to Rookie Alan Cleland Jr. (MEX). While World No. 1 Italo Ferreira (BRA) eliminated wildcard Bryan Perez (SLV). Leonardo Fioravanti (ITA) went excellent to score the highest heat total of the event so far against Ryan Callinan (AUS), and Matthew McGillivray (RSA) defeated 2022 event winner Griffin Colapinto (USA) to secure his first Round of 16 appearance in 2025.

One of the most anticipated heats of the men’s Round of 32 featured wildcard Bryan Perez (SLV) on the hunt to shake things up in front of his home crowd against current World No. 1 Italo Ferreira (BRA). Perez set the standard with his opening wave, but Ferreira utilized his back-hand attack and signature flair to take out the wildcard. Ferreira advances on to his fourth consecutive Round of 16 of the season.

Also stamping his authority on the Round of 32, current World No. 6 Leonardo Fioravanti (ITA) boasted the best heat total of the event so far with a 15.97 (out of a possible 20) over Ryan Callinan (AUS). The heat win puts Fioravanti into the World No. 5 spot ahead of Rio Waida (INA). Fioravanti going excellent amplifies his World Title campaign head of the Aussie Treble.

“It’s such a long year, and I wasn’t even thinking about that honestly. Everybody, in front and behind, surf at such a high level, but I want to be in the Top 5 at the end of the year, not just leaving El Salvador,” said Fioravanti. “It’s a step toward the right direction.”

Pictured: Leonardo Fioravanti (ITA) earned the highest heat total of the event so far to eliminate Ryan Callinan (AUS) from competition. Credit: WSL / Aaron Hughes

Buzzer Beaters From McGillivray, C. Colapinto, and Muniz

Today, a slew of upsets unraveled starting with South Africa’s CT mainstay Matthew McGillivray (RSA) pushing perennial World Title contender Griffin Colapinto (USA) against the ropes. The win marks McGillivray’s first Round of 16 entry of the year.

Colapinto’s ability above the lip put him back in the heat, launching a full rotation into the flats to take the lead. McGillivray was quick to respond with his rail game that led him to a brilliant blow-tail reverse of his own but fell short of the requirement. However, as the two continued going wave-for-wave, their final exchange witnessed McGillivray post a 6.90 (out of a possible 10), and take the lead back from Colapinto. In the dying minutes, Colapinto’s last effort wasn’t the score needed, and he was eliminated from competition.

“It’s really hard to make it out this round,” said McGillivray. “Everyone’s so talented. Then when I saw I was coming up against Griff [Colapinto], in this event obviously he’s so good out there. He’s so hard to beat out here. I was really nervous coming into today, but was trying to let that all go. Obviously you can only do your best, and whatever happens, happens. I’m just stoked that I got the score at the end there.”

Griffin’s younger brother Crosby Colapinto (USA) found fortune on his side against World Title contender Kanoa Igarashi (JPN). In the final seconds, Colapinto found a wave deep up the point and got to his feet before the horn sounded, but Igarashi was not as fortunate and stood up after the horn. This deemed his priority useless, and Igarashi was penalized for interference to push Colapinto to the Round of 16.

Adding more buzzer-beater drama and providing a big upset of his own, Alejo Muniz (BRA) put on a clutch showing over World No. 2 Barron Mamiya (HAW). Muniz’s forehand attack under pressure put up an all-important 5.43 as time expired. Despite Mamiya’s heat-best 6.83, Muniz was able to find his opportunity to strike. The 35-year-old Muniz earns his first Round of 16 appearance of the season.

“It feels really good. Because of my low seed I’ve been surfing against the best all the time, every contest,” said Muniz. “I lost to Ethan [Ewing] at Pipe, I lost to Filipe [Toledo] in Portugal. I had my chances in those heats, so I knew I was on the right track. I just needed to do better to try to break this round, so I’m just really, really stoked that I did it.”

Rookies Cleland Jr., Mignot, and Pittar Advance onto Round of 16

The upsets continued with Rookie Marco Mignot (FRA) creating buzzer-beater magic to disrupt Rio Waida’s (INA) recent fifth place in Portugal and second place finish in Abu Dhabi. Mignot’s lofty, full rotation to start the heat earned a 7.17. Waida was able to respond with a 7.83 of his own and slowly overtake the lead. Mignot had one last opportunity to capitalize and struck with a 6.50 as time expired to regain the lead and eliminate Waida.

“It’s amazing. It’s my first time ever to have my whole family together. My two brothers, my dad, and my mom,” said Mignot. “It’s a moment that I’ve dreamed my whole life to be all together, and sharing these kinds of moments. I’ve worked extremely hard. To be here and to be sharing these moments with my family is really special.”

Rookie George Pittar (AUS) went head-to-head against last year’s World No. 4 Jack Robinson (AUS) to keep his El Salvador Pro campaign alive. Both Australian’s went excellent, Pittar with an 8.17 and Robinson secured an 8.00. Pittar’s variety of power on the rail and flair to finish separated him from perennial World Title contender Robinson. Eventually Robinon’s attempts fell short of taking over Pittar’s lead.

To complete the Round of 16, Alan Cleland Jr. (MEX) created the final major upset of the day over two-time World Champion and 2023 event winner Filipe Toledo (BRA). The afternoon tested the patience of Toledo after Cleland’s quick start. After briefly being pushed to the second spot, Cleland fired back with a heat-best 7.17 to secure a momentous win in his 2025 Rookie season.

“I saw the heat draw and I was just in disbelief. Filipe [Toledo] is one of my idols and I’ve always wanted to surf against him,” Cleland said. “To surf against him in these kinds of waves is an honor. I can’t wait for more. I just have so many good friends in the town and I respect so many people here. I love them and they love me so it feels like a second home to me. Coming in to the crowd cheering for me was so special.”

Meanwhile Rookies Joel Vaughan (AUS) and Jackson Bunch (HAW) fell short and were eliminated from competition. Vaughan faced former World No. 4 João Chianca (BRA). Last year, the 24-year-old Chianca earned a Quarterfinal finish in El Salvador, and today he was able to showcase his experience over the Rookie to advance on. While 21-year-old Bunch faced Ramzi Boukhiam (MAR) who earned his first Round of 16 appearance of 2025.

Pictured: Rookie Alan Cleland Jr. (MEX) advances to the Round of 16 over 2023 event winner Filipe Toledo (BRA). Credit: WSL / Emma Sharon

Recent MEO Rip Curl Pro Portugal winner Yago Dora (BRA) started the men’s Round of 32 by advancing over 2024 Challenger Series winner Samuel Pupo (BRA). The slow conditions tested both competitors’ patience. In the end Dora capitalized on the moments the ocean came to life to push past Pupo. Despite a looming foot injury sustained during a free surf at Punta Roca that included nine stitches, Dora now advances looking to keep his momentum going into the next round.

“It’s tough to be up against your friends, but I’m wishing for Sammy [Pupo] to do good on Tour. I know his potential, and know he can do better than what he’s doing. Unfortunately we keep having these matchups,” said Dora. “Portugal was grindy and here it was grindy again. I can’t wait for us to have a proper good heat. I was actually stoked we had a bunch of lay days because my foot is still healing and still hurts a little bit but it’s a lot better now. To make two heats is already a victory for me so I’m stoked and want to keep carrying the momentum from that win in Portugal.”

Also advancing onto the Round of 16 include Connor O’Leary (JPN), Ethan Ewing (AUS), Jordy Smith (RSA), Cole Houshmand (USA) and Miguel Pupo (BRA). O’Leary found his rhythm in a slower set against Seth Moniz (HAW), and will aim for his first breakthrough result of the season. Ewing dominated in his matchup against wildcard Levi Slawson (USA), and will keep his Round of 16 streak alive with his fourth appearance this season.

2025 marks Jordy Smith’s (RSA) 18th year on Tour, and today he earned a heat win in his 160th Tour event appearance. Smith held control over Deivid Silva (BRA) and looks to make it past the Round of 16 for the first time in 2025. Cole Houshmand (USA) maintained a solid lead to take the win over fellow Southern Californian, 26-year-old Jake Marshall (USA). Marshall has yet to make it past the Round of 32 since his fifth place finish at the Lexus Pipe Pro. An all-Brazilian matchup between CT veterans Miguel Pupo (BRA) and Ian Gouveia (BRA) unfolded with both showcasing their backhand attack. In the end, it was Pupo who took the heat win and a Round of 16 appearance.

The next call for the Surf City El Salvador Pro will be tomorrow morning, Friday, April 11 at 6:45 a.m. CST for a possible 7:03 a.m. start. For highlights from today’s competition, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.

Surf City El Salvador Pro Men’s Round of 32 Results:
HEAT 1: Yago Dora (BRA) 9.50 DEF. Samuel Pupo (BRA) 4.43
HEAT 2: Connor O’Leary (JPN) 13.20 DEF. Seth Moniz (HAW) 12.27
HEAT 3: Matthew McGillivray (RSA) 13.10 DEF. Griffin Colapinto (USA) 12.86
HEAT 4: Marco Mignot (FRA) 13.67 DEF. Rio Waida (INA) 13.50
HEAT 5: Ethan Ewing (AUS) 13.23 DEF. Levi Slawson (USA) 11.13
HEAT 6: João Chianca (BRA) 12.97 DEF. Joel Vaughan (AUS) 9.13
HEAT 7: Crosby Colapinto (USA) 11.60 DEF. Kanoa Igarashi (JPN) 6.83
HEAT 8: George Pittar (AUS) 13.50 DEF. Jack Robinson (AUS) 13.17
HEAT 9: Italo Ferreira (BRA) 13.40 DEF. Bryan Perez (SLV) 13.13
HEAT 10: Ramzi Boukhiam (MAR) 11.17 DEF. Jackson Bunch (HAW) 9.67
HEAT 11: Jordy Smith (RSA) 12.50 DEF. Deivid Silva (BRA) 5.20
HEAT 12: Leonardo Fioravanti (ITA) 15.97 DEF. Ryan Callinan (AUS) 12.00
HEAT 13: Alejo Muniz (BRA) 10.93 DEF. Barron Mamiya (HAW) 10.83
HEAT 14: Cole Houshmand (USA) 13.17 DEF. Jake Marshall (USA) 11.13
HEAT 15: Miguel Pupo (BRA) 12.50 DEF. Ian Gouveia (BRA) 11.70
HEAT 16: Alan Cleland (MEX) 13.00 DEF. Filipe Toledo (BRA) 10.00Surf City El Salvador Pro Men’s Round of 16 Matchups:
HEAT 1: Yago Dora (BRA) vs. Connor O’Leary (JPN)
HEAT 2: Matthew McGillivray (RSA) vs. Marco Mignot (FRA)
HEAT 3: Ethan Ewing (AUS) vs. João Chianca (BRA)
HEAT 4: Crosby Colapinto (USA) vs. George Pittar (AUS)
HEAT 5: Italo Ferreira (BRA) vs. Ramzi Boukhiam (MAR)
HEAT 6: Jordy Smith (RSA) vs. Leonardo Fioravanti (ITA)
HEAT 7: Alejo Muniz (BRA) vs. Cole Houshmand (USA)
HEAT 8: Miguel Pupo (BRA) vs. Alan Cleland (MEX)Surf City El Salvador Pro Women’s Quarterfinal Matchups:
HEAT 1: Caitlin Simmers (USA) vs. Sawyer Lindblad (USA)
HEAT 2: Gabriela Bryan (HAW) vs. Bella Kenworthy (USA)
HEAT 3: Molly Picklum (AUS) vs. Brisa Hennessy (CRC)
HEAT 4: Isabella Nichols (AUS) vs. Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW)

PRIOR UPDATES BELOW

Men’s Round of 32 Called ON for Thursday at Surf City El Salvador Pro
Competition Started Thursday at 6:33 a.m. CST (230am HI time)
Women’s Quarterfinal on Standby
Watch Live at WorldSurfLeague.com

Pictured: Current World No. 1 Italo Ferreira (BRA) will face wildcard Bryan Perez (SLV) in Heat 9 of the men’s Round of 32 at the Surf City El Salvador Pro. Credit: WSL / Aaron Hughes

PUNTA ROCA, La Libertad, El Salvador (Thursday, April 10, 2025) – Stop No. 4 of the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour (CT), Surf City El Salvador Pro, is ON with four-to-six foot surf at Punta Roca. The men’s Round of 32 will start at 6:33 a.m. CST with 35-minute heats. The women’s Quarterfinal is on standby.

The world’s best have eagerly awaited for competition to continue at the Surf City El Salvador Pro. To kick start the day, Yago Dora (BRA) will take on compatriot Samuel Pupo (BRA). Last year, Dora found himself in the Final against eventual event winner and 2024 World Champion John John Florence (USA). He will look to redeem himself, but first, he has to face Pupo to advance to the Round of 16.

Event wildcard Bryan Perez (SLV) and current World No. Italo Ferreira (BRA) will face each other again, this time in the Round of 32. Ferreira has already secured an excellent score with an 8.00 (out of a possible 10) when he faced Perez and Rookie George Pittar (AUS) in the Opening Round. Perez had to battle through the Elimination Round as he looks to continue his campaign at his home break.

Current World No. 1 Caity Simmers (USA) and 2024 Rookie of the Year Sawyer Lindblad (USA) will kickoff the highly anticipated women’s Quarterfinal. In 2024, Simmers made it to the El Salvador Pro Semifinal where she fell short of surpassing eventual event runner-up Gabriela Bryan (HAW). Lindblad aims to advance to her first Semifinal of the season.

Quarterfinal 2 will feature last year’s event runner-up Gabriela Bryan (HAW) and CT Rookie Bella Kenworthy (USA). Bryan will look to do one better and continue her redemption run. For Kenworthy, this will be her third consecutive Quarterfinal appearance of the season.

World Title hopefuls current World No. 2 Molly Picklum (AUS) and 2024’s World No. 4 Brisa Hennessy (CRC) will look to continue their El Salvador Pro campaign in Quarterfinal 3. Then to decide the remaining Semifinal spot, CT veteran Isabella Nichols (AUS) will face rising World Title threat Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW).

Surf City El Salvador Pro Men’s Round of 32 Matchups:
HEAT 1: Yago Dora (BRA) vs. Samuel Pupo (BRA)
HEAT 2: Connor O’Leary (JPN) vs. Seth Moniz (HAW)
HEAT 3: Griffin Colapinto (USA) vs. Matthew McGillivray (RSA)
HEAT 4: Rio Waida (INA) vs. Marco Mignot (FRA)
HEAT 5: Ethan Ewing (AUS) vs. Levi Slawson (USA)
HEAT 6: Joao Chianca (BRA) vs. Joel Vaughan (AUS)
HEAT 7: Kanoa Igarashi (JPN) vs. Crosby Colapinto (USA)
HEAT 8: Jack Robinson (AUS) vs. George Pittar (AUS)
HEAT 9: Italo Ferreira (BRA) vs. Bryan Perez (SLV)
HEAT 10: Ramzi Boukhiam (MAR) vs. Jackson Bunch (HAW)
HEAT 11: Jordy Smith (RSA) vs. Deivid Silva (BRA)
HEAT 12: Leonardo Fioravanti (ITA) vs. Ryan Callinan (AUS)
HEAT 13: Barron Mamiya (HAW) vs. Alejo Muniz (BRA)
HEAT 14: Jake Marshall (USA) vs. Cole Houshmand (USA)
HEAT 15: Miguel Pupo (BRA) vs. Ian Gouveia (BRA)
HEAT 16: Filipe Toledo (BRA) vs. Alan Cleland Jr. (MEX)Surf City El Salvador Pro Women’s Quarterfinal Matchups:
HEAT 1: Caitlin Simmers (USA) vs. Sawyer Lindblad (USA)
HEAT 2: Gabriela Bryan (HAW) vs. Bella Kenworthy (USA)
HEAT 3: Molly Picklum (AUS) vs. Brisa Hennessy (CRC)
HEAT 4: Isabella Nichols (AUS) vs. Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW)

PRIOR UPDATES BELOW

Next Call: Wednesday, April 9, at 7:15 a.m. CST for Possible 7:30 a.m. Start (330am HI time)

Continued Inconsistent Conditions at Punta Roca Prompt Off Day

Pictured: The 2022 Surf City El Salvador Pro winner Griffin Colapinto (USA) will meet Matthew McGillivray (RSA) in Round of 32, Heat 3 when competition resumes. Credit: WSL / Aaron Hughes

PUNTA ROCA, La Libertad, El Salvador (Tuesday, April 8, 2025) – The Surf City El Salvador Pro, Stop No. 4 of the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour (CT), has been called OFF for the day. The inconsistent and broken swell continued and did not provide enough opportunity for event organizers to run competition. The men’s Round of 32 and women’s Quarterfinal wait for competition to continue. The next will be tomorrow morning, Wednesday, April 9, at 7:15 a.m. CST for a possible 7:30 a.m. start.

“Today is the slowest and smallest day of the window so far, and really weak surf too,” said Renato Hickel, WSL Deputy Commissioner. “We’ve been monitoring sets. Usually every half an hour there is one good wave, so we opt to wait. Tomorrow is our last chance to run anything before the big swell. Today, we have the good news that this big swell will probably come bigger than first anticipated, could be on a ten-foot mark. We’re hopeful and excited to see the swell already showing this coming Thursday early morning. We have the last three days of the window to wrap the event up.”

The men await their return to the Punta Roca arena to advance onto the Round of 16. The 2024 event runner-up Yago Dora (BRA) will take on 2022 Rookie of the Year Samuel Pupo (BRA) in Heat 1 of the men’s Round of 32 when competition resumes.

While wildcards Levi Slawson (USA) and Bryan Perez (SLV) prepare to play spoilers amongst the world’s best. Slawson will face perennial World Title threat Ethan Ewing (AUS), and Perez looks to advance into the Round of 16 once more. First, Perez will have to face current World No. 1 Italo Ferreira (BRA) for the second time in this event.

The women’s Quarterfinal will follow to see who advances to the Semifinal. Current World No. 1 Caity Simmers (USA) will take on 2024 Rookie of the Year Sawyer Lindblad (USA) in Quarterfinal 1. Followed by the 2024 event runner-up Gabriela Bryan (HAW) and CT Rookie Bella Kenworthy (USA) who wait for their head-to-head matchup.

World Title hopefuls current World No. 2 Molly Picklum (AUS) and 2024’s World No. 4 Brisa Hennessy (CRC) will look to continue their El Salvador Pro campaign in Quarterfinal 3. While yesterday’s final Round of 16 victors Isabella Nichols (AUS) and Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW) wait to secure a Semifinal spot.

For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.

Surf City El Salvador Pro Women’s Quarterfinal Matchups:
HEAT 1: Caitlin Simmers (USA) vs. Sawyer Lindblad (USA)
HEAT 2: Gabriela Bryan (HAW) vs. Bella Kenworthy (USA)
HEAT 3: Molly Picklum (AUS) vs. Brisa Hennessy (CRC)
HEAT 4: Isabella Nichols (AUS) vs. Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW)Surf City El Salvador Pro Men’s Round of 32 Matchups:
HEAT 1: Yago Dora (BRA) vs. Samuel Pupo (BRA)
HEAT 2: Connor O’Leary (JPN) vs. Seth Moniz (HAW)
HEAT 3: Griffin Colapinto (USA) vs. Matthew McGillivray (RSA)
HEAT 4: Rio Waida (INA) vs. Marco Mignot (FRA)
HEAT 5: Ethan Ewing (AUS) vs. Levi Slawson (USA)
HEAT 6: Joao Chianca (BRA) vs. Joel Vaughan (AUS)
HEAT 7: Kanoa Igarashi (JPN) vs. Crosby Colapinto (USA)
HEAT 8: Jack Robinson (AUS) vs. George Pittar (AUS)
HEAT 9: Italo Ferreira (BRA) vs. Bryan Perez (SLV)
HEAT 10: Ramzi Boukhiam (MAR) vs. Jackson Bunch (HAW)
HEAT 11: Jordy Smith (RSA) vs. Deivid Silva (BRA)
HEAT 12: Leonardo Fioravanti (ITA) vs. Ryan Callinan (AUS)
HEAT 13: Barron Mamiya (HAW) vs. Alejo Muniz (BRA)
HEAT 14: Jake Marshall (USA) vs. Cole Houshmand (USA)
HEAT 15: Miguel Pupo (BRA) vs. Ian Gouveia (BRA)
HEAT 16: Filipe Toledo (BRA) vs. Alan Cleland Jr. (MEX)

PRIOR UPDATES BELOW

Women’s Quarterfinal Matchups Determined at Surf City El Salvador Pro

Isabella Nichols Advances Over Back-to-Back El Salvador Pro Winner Caroline Marks

Bettylou Sakura Johnson Earns First Quarterfinal Appearance of 2025 Season

Next Call: Tuesday, April 8, at 6:15 a.m. CST For a Possible 6:33 a.m. Start

Pictured: Isabella Nichols (AUS) and Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW) will meet in the women’s Quarterfinal at the Surf City El Salvador Pro. Credit: WSL / Aaron Hughes

PUNTA ROCA, La Libertad, El Salvador (Monday, April 7, 2025) – Today, the women’s Quarterfinal matchups are complete at the Surf City El Salvador Pro, Stop No. 4 of the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour (CT). For the remaining women’s Round of 16 heats there were three-to-four foot waves on offer in slower sets. The next call is tomorrow, Tuesday, April 8 at 6:15 a.m. CST for a possible 6:33 a.m. CST start.

After waiting through a day of competition and an off day, Isabella Nichols (AUS), Caroline Marks (USA), Tyler Wright (AUS), and Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW) finally got their call to complete the women’s Round of 16 and determine the Quarterfinalists. Nichols and Johnson will face each other in the Quarterfinal. When competition continues they will be vying for a spot in the Semifinal along with current World No. 1 Caity Simmers (USA), 2024 event runner-up Gabriela Bryan (HAW), and Costa Rica’s Brisa Hennessy (CRC).

Isabella Nichols Advances Over Back-to-Back El Salvador Pro Winner Caroline Marks

Heat 7 kicked off today’s competition featuring Isabella Nichols (AUS) and Caroline Marks (USA). Punta Roca offered slower sets which resulted in a heat restart. Both competitors made mistakes while navigating the conditions. Eventually, the swell delivered chances to capitalize and Nichols posted a 7.17 (out of a possible 10) to take the lead and advance to the Quarterfinal over Marks, the back-to-back event winner. Previously, the only person to beat Marks in El Salvador was eventual event winner Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) in 2022.

“It’s been a tough few days. I’ve put this jersey on for a third time now and I guess third time lucky,” Nichols said. “It’s been really stop-starty and the emotional rollercoaster we go through just to get ready for one heat and having to do that a bunch of times, it’s been tough. To be able to pull through that one after a shaky start, I hadn’t surfed a wave for 20 minutes so my legs weren’t really working. But I just want to give a shout out to my sister, and this might make me a bit emotional but I think by making that heat I might miss her wedding. It’s a bittersweet win but just want to say I love her so much.”

Bettylou Sakura Johnson Earns First Quarterfinal Appearance of 2025 Season

Two-time World Champion Tyler Wright (AUS) and rising star Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW) completed the Women’s Round of 16 and rounded out the Quarterfinal matchups. Johnson and Wright’s opening waves resulted in solid scores for both competitors with Johnson getting the nod of a 6.00 (out of a possible 10). Although Wright, the current World No. 4, made the best of the opportunities on offer, she fell short of surpassing Johnson.

“Just knowing that the ocean was super slow this morning I kind of knew to just capitalize on those bigger sets when they did come in,” Johnson said. “Coming up against Tyler [Wright], she’s a World Champion, she’s hard to beat. I’m definitely happy to get over that one. It’s a right point break and I love my front hand. Of course taking it heat by heat. Just knowing I have the capability to win heats and win an event it’s really special and I hope to win an event someday. It’s so important to have a good support team and I’m super grateful that everyone came down to watch my heat. To have that support means the world.”

The next call for the Surf City El Salvador Pro will be tomorrow, Monday, April 7, at 6:15 a.m. CST for a possible 6:33 a.m. start. For highlights from today’s competition, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.

Surf City El Salvador Pro Women’s Round of 16 Results:
HEAT 1: Caitlin Simmers (USA) 12.67 DEF. Luana Silva (BRA) 11.67
HEAT 2: Sawyer Lindblad (USA) 11.97 DEF. Lakey Peterson (USA) 11.47
HEAT 3: Gabriela Bryan (HAW) 9.53 DEF. Alyssa Spencer (USA) 7.00
HEAT 4: Bella Kenworthy (USA) 12.16 DEF. Erin Brooks (CAN) 11.77
HEAT 5: Molly Picklum (AUS) 12.57 DEF. Kirra Pinkerton (USA) 11.53
HEAT 6: Brisa Hennessy (CRC) 8.70 DEF. Vahine Fierro (FRA) 8.50
HEAT 7: Isabella Nichols (AUS) 12.30 DEF. Caroline Marks (USA) 9.66
HEAT 8: Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW) 11.50 DEF. Tyler Wright (AUS) 9.53Surf City El Salvador Pro Women’s Quarterfinal Matchups:
HEAT 1: Caitlin Simmers (USA) vs. Sawyer Lindblad (USA)
HEAT 2: Gabriela Bryan (HAW) vs. Bella Kenworthy (USA)
HEAT 3: Molly Picklum (AUS) vs. Brisa Hennessy (CRC)
HEAT 4: Isabella Nichols (AUS) vs. Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW)Surf City El Salvador Pro Men’s Round of 32 Matchups:
HEAT 1: Yago Dora (BRA) vs. Samuel Pupo (BRA)
HEAT 2: Connor O’Leary (JPN) vs. Seth Moniz (HAW)
HEAT 3: Griffin Colapinto (USA) vs. Matthew McGillivray (RSA)
HEAT 4: Rio Waida (INA) vs. Marco Mignot (FRA)
HEAT 5: Ethan Ewing (AUS) vs. Levi Slawson (USA)
HEAT 6: Joao Chianca (BRA) vs. Joel Vaughan (AUS)
HEAT 7: Kanoa Igarashi (JPN) vs. Crosby Colapinto (USA)
HEAT 8: Jack Robinson (AUS) vs. George Pittar (AUS)
HEAT 9: Italo Ferreira (BRA) vs. Bryan Perez (SLV)
HEAT 10: Ramzi Boukhiam (MAR) vs. Jackson Bunch (HAW)
HEAT 11: Jordy Smith (RSA) vs. Deivid Silva (BRA)
HEAT 12: Leonardo Fioravanti (ITA) vs. Ryan Callinan (AUS)
HEAT 13: Barron Mamiya (HAW) vs. Alejo Muniz (BRA)
HEAT 14: Jake Marshall (USA) vs. Cole Houshmand (USA)
HEAT 15: Miguel Pupo (BRA) vs. Ian Gouveia (BRA)
HEAT 16: Filipe Toledo (BRA) vs. Alan Cleland Jr. (MEX)

Pictured: Yago Dora (BRA) and Samuel Pupo (BRA) will compete in the Round of 32, Heat 1, when the Surf City El Salvador Pro continues. Credit: WSL / Aaron Hughes

PUNTA ROCA, La Libertad, El Salvador (Saturday, April 5, 2025) – The Surf City El Salvador Pro, Stop No. 4 of the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour (CT), has been called OFF for the day due to an inconsistent and broken up swell. The Commissioner’s Office will hold for better conditions to resume the remaining women’s Round of 16 heats and to start the men’s Round of 32. The next call will be tomorrow morning, Monday, April 7, at 6:15 a.m. CST for a possible 6:33 a.m. start.

“We looked extensively today for over 45 minutes. It is definitely a different angle,” said Renato Hickel, WSL Deputy Commissioner. “The swell today is closing out more here at the end of the bay, more sectioning, and also with less power. Looks like a smaller period than yesterday and not the same quality. We decided to bet on tomorrow with the little bump in the swell we’re going to have for Monday and Tuesday. We’ll see everybody here tomorrow at 6:15 a.m. for a possible 6:33 a.m. start.”

Key matchups await for competition to resume in Punta Roca, including former event winners looking to keep their campaign alive, World Title contenders vying for valuable points, and men’s wildcards preparing to shake things up.

The women’s Quarterfinal matchups are almost complete with two spots remaining. 2023 World Champion and back-to-back event winner Caroline Marks (USA) and two-time World Champion Tyler Wright (AUS) wait to face CT veteran Isabella Nichols (AUS) and Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW), respectively, to advance on.

The MEO Rip Curl Pro Portugal winner Yago Dora (BRA) and 2022 Rookie of the Year Samuel Pupo (BRA) will kick off the men’s Round of 32. While Current World No. 1 Italo Ferreira (BRA) and wildcard Bryan Perez (SLV) wait to meet again following their Opening Round matchup where Perez was pushed to the Elimination Round. Wildcard Levi Slawson (USA) prepares to take on 2024’s World No. 5 Ethan Ewing (AUS), and the 2023 event winner Filipe Toledo (BRA) will meet Rookie Alan Cleland Jr. (MEX).

The next call will be made tomorrow, Monday, April 7, at 6:15 AM CST for possible 6:33 a.m. start.

For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.

Surf City El Salvador Pro Remaining Women’s Round of 16 Matchups (Heats 7 – 8):
HEAT 7: Caroline Marks (USA) vs. Isabella Nichols (AUS)
HEAT 8: Tyler Wright (AUS) vs. Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW)Surf City El Salvador Pro Men’s Round of 32 Matchups:
HEAT 1: Yago Dora (BRA) vs. Samuel Pupo (BRA)
HEAT 2: Connor O’Leary (JPN) vs. Seth Moniz (HAW)
HEAT 3: Griffin Colapinto (USA) vs. Matthew McGillivray (RSA)
HEAT 4: Rio Waida (INA) vs. Marco Mignot (FRA)
HEAT 5: Ethan Ewing (AUS) vs. Levi Slawson (USA)
HEAT 6: Joao Chianca (BRA) vs. Joel Vaughan (AUS)
HEAT 7: Kanoa Igarashi (JPN) vs. Crosby Colapinto (USA)
HEAT 8: Jack Robinson (AUS) vs. George Pittar (AUS)
HEAT 9: Italo Ferreira (BRA) vs. Bryan Perez (SLV)
HEAT 10: Ramzi Boukhiam (MAR) vs. Jackson Bunch (HAW)
HEAT 11: Jordy Smith (RSA) vs. Deivid Silva (BRA)
HEAT 12: Leonardo Fioravanti (ITA) vs. Ryan Callinan (AUS)
HEAT 13: Barron Mamiya (HAW) vs. Alejo Muniz (BRA)
HEAT 14: Jake Marshall (USA) vs. Cole Houshmand (USA)
HEAT 15: Miguel Pupo (BRA) vs. Ian Gouveia (BRA)
HEAT 16: Filipe Toledo (BRA) vs. Alan Cleland Jr. (MEX)

PRIOR UPDATES BELOW
Off for the Day, Next Call Sunday Apr 6, 5:50 AM CST (150am HI Time)
Women’s Round of 16 Called ON at Surf City El Salvador Pro
Saturday Competition Began at 6:33 a.m. CST (230am HI time)
Men’s Round of 32 on Standby
Watch Live at WorldSurfLeague.com

Pictured: Today, current World No. 1 Caity Simmers (USA) and Luana Silva (BRA) will kick off the women’s Round of 16 at the Surf City El Salvador Pro. Credit: WSL / Emma Sharon

PUNTA ROCA, La Libertad, El Salvador (Saturday, April 5, 2025) – The Surf City El Salvador Pro, Stop No. 4 of the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour (CT), is ON. The high-performance, right-hand point break of Punta Roca, also known as La Punta or Punta Chilama will host the women’s Round of 16 with the men’s Round of 32 on standby in clean three-to-four foot waves. The competition will start at 6:33 a.m. CST with 30-minute heats.

Up first reigning World Champion Caity Simmers (USA) in the Yellow Jersey will take on Elimination Round victor Luana Silva (BRA). Followed by an all-California clash featuring 2024 Rookie of the Year Sawyer Lindblad (USA) and former event runner runner-up Lakey Peterson (USA).

Current World No. 8 Gabriela Bryan (HAW) secured a runner-up finish at this event last year, and recently secured second place at the MEO Rip Curl Pro Portugal. Bryan will look to continue her momentum as she faces event wildcard Alyssa Spencer (USA).

In a head-to-head matchup, 17-year-old Erin Brooks (CAN) will face her fellow Rookie classmate 18-year-old Bella Kenworthy (USA) as they compete for a Quarterfinal spot. Two-time World Champion Tyler Wright (AUS) and Bettlylou Sakura Johnson (HAW) will close out the women’s Round of 16.

Watch the Surf City El Salvador Pro at WorldSurfLeague.com.

Surf City El Salvador Pro Women’s Round of 16 Matchups:
HEAT 1: Caitlin Simmers (USA) vs. Luana Silva (BRA)
HEAT 2: Sawyer Lindblad (USA) vs. Lakey Peterson (USA)
HEAT 3: Gabriela Bryan (HAW) vs. Alyssa Spencer (USA)
HEAT 4: Erin Brooks (CAN) vs. Bella Kenworthy (USA)
HEAT 5: Molly Picklum (AUS) vs. Kirra Pinkerton (USA)
HEAT 6: Brisa Hennessy (CRC) vs. Vahine Fierro (FRA)
HEAT 7: Caroline Marks (USA) vs. Isabella Nichols (AUS)
HEAT 8: Tyler Wright (AUS) vs. Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW)Surf City El Salvador Pro Men’s Round of 32 Matchups:
HEAT 1: Yago Dora (BRA) vs. Samuel Pupo (BRA)
HEAT 2: Connor O’Leary (JPN) vs. Seth Moniz (HAW)
HEAT 3: Griffin Colapinto (USA) vs. Matthew McGillivray (RSA)
HEAT 4: Rio Waida (INA) vs. Marco Mignot (FRA)
HEAT 5: Ethan Ewing (AUS) vs. Levi Slawson (USA)
HEAT 6: Joao Chianca (BRA) vs. Joel Vaughan (AUS)
HEAT 7: Kanoa Igarashi (JPN) vs. Crosby Colapinto (USA)
HEAT 8: Jack Robinson (AUS) vs. George Pittar (AUS)
HEAT 9: Italo Ferreira (BRA) vs. Bryan Perez (SLV)
HEAT 10: Ramzi Boukhiam (MAR) vs. Jackson Bunch (HAW)
HEAT 11: Jordy Smith (RSA) vs. Deivid Silva (BRA)
HEAT 12: Leonardo Fioravanti (ITA) vs. Ryan Callinan (AUS)
HEAT 13: Barron Mamiya (HAW) vs. Alejo Muniz (BRA)
HEAT 14: Jake Marshall (USA) vs. Cole Houshmand (USA)
HEAT 15: Miguel Pupo (BRA) vs. Ian Gouveia (BRA)
HEAT 16: Filipe Toledo (BRA) vs. Alan Cleland Jr. (MEX)

PRIOR UPDATES BELOW

Wildcards Generate Early Upsets at Surf City El Salvador Pro

Women’s Round of 16 and Men’s Round of 32 Matchups Determined

19-Year-Old Lindblad Serves Excellence to Advance to Round of 16

Next Call: Saturday, April 5, at 6:15 a.m. CST For a Possible 6:33 a.m. Start (4 hours ahead)

Pictured: Today Sawyer Lindblad (USA) earned the first excellent score of the women’s Surf City El Salvador Pro, an 8.17, in the Elimination Round Credit: WSL / Aaron Hughes

PUNTA ROCA, La Libertad, El Salvador (Friday, April 4, 2025) – Today’s competition eliminated the first six surfers from the 2025 Surf City El Salvador Pro with the completion of the men’s and women’s Elimination Rounds. Stop No. 4 of the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour (CT) hosted clean three-to-four-foot waves for today’s heats at Punta Roca for a condensed day to set up the matchups for the men’s Round of 32 and women’s Round of 16.

Event wildcards Bryan Perez (SLV), Levi Slawson (USA), and Alyssa Spencer (USA) made their mark in El Salvador, taking down World Title contenders to advance to the next round. Sawyer Lindblad (USA) earned the first excellent score of the women’s event to win her heat and punch her ticket to the Round of 16. Meanwhile, Alan Cleland Jr. (MEX) and Samuel Pupo (BRA) both notched confident heat wins and are building momentum as they chase their best results of the season.

Wildcards Generate Early Upsets

All four wildcards faced elimination and battled back to earn their respective positions in the next round.

The men’s Elimination Round was off to a slow start, with waves and scores waiting for Miguel Pupo (BRA), Edgard Groggia (BRA), and Bryan Perez (SLV) to come in. Event Wildcard Perez showed his knowledge and power at his home break of Punta Roca. His first wave was a near-excellent 7.33 (out of a possible 10) and later backed by a 6.80 to take the win and advance to the Round of 32 alongside Pupo. The CT veteran Pupo found himself in the third place position and minutes away from facing elimination until he was able to find a 7.10 to push him over the Rookie Groggia.

“I just wanna have fun in the water. Just enjoy my time, catch the wave, and have fun, just letting go of everything, and enjoy that,” said Perez. “I’m here with my family, with my coach, with the people that come to the city to support me. It’s beautiful to see.”

One of Southern California’s proven CT qualification threats, Levi Slawson (USA), added his name to the wildcard watchlist in El Salvador with a massive Elimination Round win. Slawson’s forehand attack led to an impressive 7.00, besting Alejo Muniz (BRA) and Liam O’Brien (AUS). Muniz advanced in second position, eliminating O’Brien from the competition.

“Surfing alongside Jake [Marshall] and Alyssa [Spencer] here is pretty special,” said Slawson. “I don’t think there’s ever really been three Encinitas people at a CT before. I’m just trying to soak in all of this. The day they told me that I had the wildcard, I went out for a free surf and tore the ligaments in my ankle. I actually almost broke my ankle and so every wave I catch is excruciating. Jake always has something to say to me. He has a ton of experience, and he’s a great surfer, so I have to listen to my instincts but take knowledge where I can get it.”

In the second women’s Elimination Round heat, event wildcard Alyssa Spencer (USA) took second place to eliminate CT veteran Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) and move on to the Round of 16. Luana Silva (BRA), the 2024 World Junior Champion, took the win, posting a 7.00 and a 6.00 for a two-wave total of 13.00 (out of a possible 20).

“This wave has so many factors, the heat, the rocks, the sun in your face,” said Silva. “7:00 a.m., that sun’s straight in your face, and it’s really hard to navigate the waves with the sun directly in your face. I was trying to feel the wave, and just try to open up as much as I can.”

Event wildcard and 2018 World Junior Champion Kirra Pinkerton (USA) kicked off today’s competition, holding the lead over Sawyer Lindblad (USA) and CT replacement surfer Nadia Erostarbe (ESP). Pinkerton put on a display of power and earned the second-place position to eliminate Erostarbe from the event.

19-Year-Old Lindblad Serves Excellence to Advance to Round of 16

2024 Rookie of the Year Sawyer Lindblad (USA) found her form under pressure to post the highest single-wave score of the women’s competition so far. The 19-year-old collected an 8.17 (out of a possible 10) in the final minutes of a tense battle against Pinkerton and Erostarbe. Her razor-sharp backhand attack gouged a Punta Roca gem to earn the Elimination Round heat win.

Lindblad’s two Final appearances in her rookie season catapulted her up the rankings to finish within the Top 10 at World No. 8 in 2024. Lindblad is currently ranked World No. 7 and looks to find a major result to jumpstart her 2025 season to push herself toward the World Title race.

“I was the last heat of the day yesterday and then the first heat today, so I was pretty crushed after losing yesterday and needing only a 1.00,” said Lindblad. “So I had to regroup, and it was honestly pretty hard. But I’m happy I did it, and I’m happy I made it through.”

S. Pupo and Cleland Jr. Avoid Elimination

The 2022 Rookie of the Year Samuel Pupo (BRA) has yet to find the results he has anticipated for this season. Pupo hit reset from his Opening Round performance to earn a 14.07 heat total today, his highest of the season.

“I think there was some stress out there, but I was just trying to think of it as my first heat of the event,” Pupo said. “I just wanted to reset and trick my mind that it’s still the first heat, and I think it worked. I finally got some better conditions that I could show my surfing more. The last two events have been stressful for me not being able to show my surfing, but I was super stoked about that last heat. Unfortunately, I’ve been in this position, so I know how it works. This event and the next three will be events I really look forward to.”

It was a big moment for 2024 CT Rookie Alan Cleland Jr. (MEX) as he escaped elimination to continue his El Salvador Pro campaign. Although the conditions offered less frequent opportunities, Cleland’s buzzer-beater helped push him past Cole Houshmand (USA) and Ian Gentil (HAW), eventually eliminating Gentil from the competition.

Cleland looks to carry his Central America fans deep into competition and find his breakthrough result of the 2025 CT season.

“The waves are pretty slow,” said Cleland. “There’s only been two wave sets and stuff, and I made that mistake of going on the wave Cole [Houshmand] went on. It was a pretty small one, but I thought I had a good line. Just got to work on that. There was a three-wave set at the end, which I got really lucky because there were never three waves, and it ended up being the best one at the very back. So yeah, I got a couple of good turns off, and it felt good to come up on top.”

The next call for the Surf City El Salvador Pro will be tomorrow, Saturday, April 5, at 6:15 a.m. CST for a possible 6:33 a.m. start. For highlights from today’s competition, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.

Surf City El Salvador Pro Women’s Elimination Round Results:
HEAT 1: Sawyer Lindblad (USA) 13.37 DEF. Kirra Pinkerton (USA) 13.10, Nadia Erostarbe (ESP) 11.64
HEAT 2: Luana Silva (BRA) 13.00 DEF. Alyssa Spencer (USA) 11.33, Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) 10.00Surf City El Salvador Pro Men’s Elimination Round Results:
HEAT 1: Bryan Perez (SLV) 14.13 DEF. Miguel Pupo (BRA) 13.10, Edgard Groggia (BRA) 10.90
HEAT 2: Levi Slawson (USA) 13.10 DEF. Alejo Muniz (BRA) 11.47, Liam O’Brien (AUS) 10.33
HEAT 3: Alan Cleland (MEX) 13.84 DEF. Cole Houshmand (USA) 12.46, Ian Gentil (HAW) 11.17
HEAT 4: Samuel Pupo (BRA) 14.07 DEF. Ryan Callinan (AUS) 13.07, Imaikalani deVault (HAW) 11.47Surf City El Salvador Pro Women’s Round of 16 Matchups:
HEAT 1: Caitlin Simmers (USA) vs. Luana Silva (BRA)
HEAT 2: Sawyer Lindblad (USA) vs. Lakey Peterson (USA)
HEAT 3: Gabriela Bryan (HAW) vs. Alyssa Spencer (USA)
HEAT 4: Erin Brooks (CAN) vs. Bella Kenworthy (USA)
HEAT 5: Molly Picklum (AUS) vs. Kirra Pinkerton (USA)
HEAT 6: Brisa Hennessy (CRC) vs. Vahine Fierro (FRA)
HEAT 7: Caroline Marks (USA) vs. Isabella Nichols (AUS)
HEAT 8: Tyler Wright (AUS) vs. Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW)Surf City El Salvador Pro Men’s Round of 32 Matchups:
HEAT 1: Yago Dora (BRA) vs. Samuel Pupo (BRA)
HEAT 2: Connor O’Leary (JPN) vs. Seth Moniz (HAW)
HEAT 3: Griffin Colapinto (USA) vs. Matthew McGillivray (RSA)
HEAT 4: Rio Waida (INA) vs. Marco Mignot (FRA)
HEAT 5: Ethan Ewing (AUS) vs. Levi Slawson (USA)
HEAT 6: Joao Chianca (BRA) vs. Joel Vaughan (AUS)
HEAT 7: Kanoa Igarashi (JPN) vs. Crosby Colapinto (USA)
HEAT 8: Jack Robinson (AUS) vs. George Pittar (AUS)
HEAT 9: Italo Ferreira (BRA) vs. Bryan Perez (SLV)
HEAT 10: Ramzi Boukhiam (MAR) vs. Jackson Bunch (HAW)
HEAT 11: Jordy Smith (RSA) vs. Deivid Silva (BRA)
HEAT 12: Leonardo Fioravanti (ITA) vs. Ryan Callinan (AUS)
HEAT 13: Barron Mamiya (HAW) vs. Alejo Muniz (BRA)
HEAT 14: Jake Marshall (USA) vs. Cole Houshmand (USA)
HEAT 15: Miguel Pupo (BRA) vs. Ian Gouveia (BRA)
HEAT 16: Filipe Toledo (BRA) vs. Alan Cleland Jr. (MEX)

PRIOR UPDATES

FRIDAY: Elimination Rounds Called ON at Surf City El Salvador Pro

Competition Began at 6:33 a.m. CST (230am Friday for Hawaii)

Women’s Elimination Round Followed by Men’s Elimination Round

Watch Live at WorldSurfLeague.com

Pictured: In Heat 1 of the men’s Elimination Round will feature event wildcard Bryan Perez (SLV), Miguel Pupo (BRA) and Edgard Groggia (BRA). Credit: WSL / Aaron Hughes

PUNTA ROCA, La Libertad, El Salvador (Friday, April 4, 2025) – The Surf City El Salvador Pro, Stop No. 4 of the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour (CT), is ON.

Starting at 6:33 a.m. CST, competition will begin with the women’s Elimination Round followed by the men’s Elimination Round with 35-minute heats. Today’s competition will determine the first eliminations of the event in three-to-four foot waves at Punta Roca.

The women will take to the water first for Day 3 of competition. Beginning with 2024 Rookie of the Year Sawyer Lindblad (USA), CT replacement surfer Nadia Erostarbe (ESP) and wildcard, recent North America Regional Qualifying Series (QS) victor Kirra Pinkerton (USA). In the final heat of the women’s Elimination Round, CT veteran Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) will face wildcard Alyssa Spencer (USA) and Luana Silva (BRA) to determine the remaining spots in the Round of 16.

Heat 1 of the men’s Elimination Round will feature El Salvador’s own Bryan Perez (SLV). Perez will look to keep his wildcard push alive when he takes on CT veteran Miguel Pupo (BRA) and Rookie Edgard Groggia (BRA).

Australian Liam O’Brien (AUS) is eager for a breakthrough result in Punta Roca. In order to keep his campaign alive he will have to take on CT returner Alejo Muniz (BRA) and wildcard threat Levi Slawson (USA). Heat 3 will feature a clash of emerging CT talent including Rookie Alan Cleland Jr. (MEX), Cole Houshmand (USA), and injury replacement surfer Ian Gentil (HAW).

CT veteran Ryan Callinan (AUS) and CT returners Imaikalani deVault (HAW) and 2024 Challenger Series (CS) winner Samuel Pupo (BRA) will close out the men’s Elimination Round and determine who earns the remaining spots in the Round of 32.

Surf City El Salvador Pro Women’s Elimination Round Matchups:
HEAT 1: Sawyer Lindblad (USA) vs. Nadia Erostarbe (ESP) vs. Kirra Pinkerton (USA)
HEAT 2: Luana Silva (BRA) vs. Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) vs. Alyssa Spencer (USA)Surf City El Salvador Pro Men’s Elimination Round Matchups:
HEAT 1: Miguel Pupo (BRA) vs. Edgard Groggia (BRA) vs. Bryan Perez (SLV)
HEAT 2: Liam O’Brien (AUS) vs. Alejo Muniz (BRA) vs. Levi Slawson (USA)
HEAT 3: Cole Houshmand (USA) vs. Alan Cleland (MEX) vs. Ian Gentil (HAW)
HEAT 4: Ryan Callinan (AUS) vs. Imaikalani deVault (HAW) vs. Samuel Pupo (BRA)

Ferreira and Fioravanti Go Excellent

Past Event Winners Channel Previous Success

Next Call Tomorrow at 5:50 a.m. CST for Possible 6:03 a.m. CST Start (250am Friday HI time)

Pictured: The 2022 Surf City El Salvador Pro winner Griffin Colapinto (USA) advances to the Round of 32. Credit: WSL / Aaron Hughes

PUNTA ROCA, La Libertad, El Salvador (Thursday, April 3, 2025) – The Elimination Round matchups are set at the 2025 Surf City El Salvador Pro, Stop No. 4 of the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour (CT). Today saw the completion of the men’s and women’s Opening Rounds. The morning presented four-to-five-foot conditions until the tide led to a competition pause, and then later resumed for the remaining women’s Opening Round heats. The next call will be tomorrow, Friday, April 4, at 5:50 a.m. CST for a possible 6:03 a.m. start.

Today’s Opening Rounds showcased power and progression, including World Champions and World Title contenders earning their first heat wins of the event. Former event finalists Lakey Peterson (USA) and Gabriela Bryan (USA) showed their skills at the right-hand break to move onto the Round of 16. On the men’s side, 2019 World Champion Italo Ferreira (BRA) earned his 14th excellent score of the season, and 2022 El Salvador Pro winner Griffin Colapinto (USA) kicked off his campaign with a heat win.

Ferreira and Fioravanti Go Excellent

In a highly-anticipated rematch from 2024’s Surf City El Salvador Pro, World No. 1 Italo Ferreira (BRA) and event wildcard Bryan Perez (SLV) were back at it in the Punta Roca arena along with 2025 CT Rookie George Pittar (AUS). Ferreira found himself in need of a score with Pittar showcasing his powerful rail game. Ferreira answered back with his signature backhand flair to post an excellent 8.00 (out of a possible 10), his 14th excellent score of the season. One last exchange between Pittar and Ferreira went down to the wire with Pittar posting another 7-point ride, but Ferreira’s 6.17 was enough to take the heat win. El Salvador’s Perez was sent to the Elimination Round.

“2025 has been super fun for me. I had a couple good results. I just won the wave pool, the event that I would love to win. Then Portugal had one more Final. It’s just an opportunity, just living my best life, and enjoying the moment,” said Ferreira. “I just want to say thank you guys for all those moments.”

Leonardo Fioravanti (ITA) kicked off his campaign by going excellent with an 8.33, the highest single-wave score of the day. Fioravanti advanced alongside Crosby Colapinto (USA) and dropped Liam O’Brien (AUS) to the Elimination Round.

Past Event Winners Channel Previous Success

The 2022 event winner Griffin Colapinto (USA) hasn’t seen his typical results this season, but he tapped into his previous success in Punta Roca to find his groove in the Opening Round. Colapinto nearly went excellent and prevailed over friends Cole Houshmand (USA) and Matthew McGillivray (RSA) with an impressive 14.87 heat total. McGillivray joins Colapinto in the Round of 32.

Filipe Toledo (BRA) returns to El Salvador for the first time since winning in 2023. Today, he added his name to the excellent list right away with an 8.00 against Ian Gouveia (BRA) and CT Rookie sensation Alan Cleland Jr. (MEX). Toledo went on to earn the highest heat total of the day with 15.77 (out of a possible 20).

Peterson, Bryan, Wright Start Strong to Take Maiden El Salvador CT Wins

The women’s Opening Round saw Lakey Peterson (USA) kickstart her heat with a solid score. The former event runner-up then pushed her heat total to a 12.17 to maintain the lead. Peterson’s opponents battled into the final moments of the heat for the second place position and a spot in the Round of 16. Eventually back-to-back 2023 and 2024 event winner Caroline Marks (USA) took a slight lead over event wildcard Alyssa Spencer (USA) to advance and knock Spencer to the Elimination Round.

“The ocean was definitely a bit kind to me then as well. A lot of it’s just rhythm and my start was critical. It also put me in a good rhythm for my second wave, for my third wave, my 7, so super stoked,” said Peterson. “I love this spot and this wave. It’s the right point and I was stocked to get round one going.”

Last year’s event runner-up Gabriela Bryan (USA) was in her element as she entered her fourth El Salvador Pro. Bryan showcased her power and secured the highest heat total of the women’s Opening Round with a 7.17 (out of a possible 10) and 5.73.

“I think the most obvious one is it’s my forehand and it’s a right-hand point break, so I love that,” said Bryan. “It just has a really good pace to it where if you just find the right timing. You can really unload and I can just do some carves, which I love. Also just being back in bikinis and warm weather reminds me of home. So I feel really good here. This is my fourth time here, so I’m getting more and more comfortable every time.”

Under challenging conditions, the 2023 event runner-up Tyler Wright (AUS) rose to the occasion and took the win over Brisa Hennessy (CRC) and Luana Silva (BRA). Hennessy held a narrow lead over the two-time World Champion before Wright was able to make the necessary adjustments to advance to the Round of 16. Silva moves onto the Elimination Round.

Sakura Johnson Fights Back, Nichols Advances Over Teenage Goofyfoots

In the first three stops of the 2025 CT, Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW) has consistently earned a ninth place finish. Today, Johnson secured her first Opening Round win of the season, and she’ll have a chance to prove herself one or more better once competition resumes. Reigning World Champion Caity Simmers (USA) also advances and pushes event wildcard 22-year-old Kirra Pinkerton (USA) to the Elimination Round.

“The hold is actually better for this wave. We need this incoming tide for it to get a little better and more rippable,” said Johnson. “It was kind of a long hold. We kind of just stayed here all day, since the morning. Just kind of preserve my energy, and make sure I’m ready for all my gears out in the water.”

To close out the women’s Opening Round, Isabella Nichols (AUS) advanced to the Round of 16 over Rookie Erin Brooks (CAN) and 2024 Rookie of the Year Sawyer Lindblad (USA) with a 10.33 two-wave total. Nichols overcame Lindblad’s early 7.17 with her backup, and it was a battle over second place for Brooks and Lindblad. Although Lindblad had one of the highest single wave scores of the women’s division, she needed 1.73 to take the lead over Brooks, but fell short and now goes to the Elimination Round.

Current World No. 3 Ethan Ewing (AUS), Kanoa Igarashi (USA), Jake Marshall (USA), and Miguel Pupo (BRA) kicked off their 2025 El Salvador Pro campaigns with wins and advanced to the Round of 32.

Solid Punta Roca Debut for Rookies

CT Rookies Erin Brooks (CAN), Vahine Fierro (FRA) and Bella Kenworthy (USA) took the second place position in each of their matchups to move onto the Round of 16.

Joel Vaughan (AUS), Marco Mignot (FRA), and George Pittar (AUS) also couldn’t secure a heat win in their respective matchups, but advanced to the Round of 32 joining Jackson Bunch (HAW). While Alan Cleland (MEX) will have to wait until the Elimination Round to secure his spot alongside Edgard Groggia (BRA).

For highlights from today’s competition at the Surf City El Salvador Pro, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.

Surf City El Salvador Pro Women’s Opening Round Results:
HEAT 1: Molly Picklum (AUS) 9.83 DEF. Bella Kenworthy (USA) 9.26, Nadia Erostarbe (ESP) 9.17
HEAT 2: Lakey Peterson (USA) 12.17 DEF. Caroline Marks (USA) 9.43, Alyssa Spencer (USA) 8.53
HEAT 3: Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW) 10.76 DEF. Caitlin Simmers (USA) 9.73, Kirra Pinkerton (USA) 6.50
HEAT 4: Gabriela Bryan (HAW) 12.90 DEF. Vahine Fierro (FRA) 9.74, Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) 4.23
HEAT 5: Tyler Wright (AUS) 9.37 DEF. Brisa Hennessy (CRC) 9.10, Luana Silva (BRA) 8.44
HEAT 6: Isabella Nichols (AUS) 10.33 DEF. Erin Brooks (CAN) 8.90, Sawyer Lindblad (USA) 8.47Surf City El Salvador Pro Women’s Elimination Round Matchups:
HEAT 1: Sawyer Lindblad (USA) vs. Nadia Erostarbe (ESP) vs. Kirra Pinkerton (USA)
HEAT 2: Luana Silva (BRA) vs. Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) vs. Alyssa Spencer (USA)Surf City El Salvador Pro Men’s Opening Round Results:
HEAT 1: Connor O’Leary (JPN) 11.50 DEF. Rio Waida (INA) 11.43, Alejo Muniz (BRA) 8.94
HEAT 2: Joao Chianca (BRA) 9.40 DEF. Jack Robinson (AUS) 9.17, Edgard Groggia (BRA) 8.90
HEAT 3: Ramzi Boukhiam (MAR) 13.77 DEF. Barron Mamiya (HAW) 10.33, Samuel Pupo (BRA) 9.23
HEAT 4: Jackson Bunch (HAW) 12.16 DEF. Yago Dora (BRA) 10.26, Ian Gentil (HAW) 9.34
HEAT 5: Ethan Ewing (AUS) 11.50 DEF. Marco Mignot (FRA) 10.84, Levi Slawson (USA) 4.83
HEAT 6: Italo Ferreira (BRA) 14.67 DEF. George Pittar (AUS) 14.17, Bryan Perez (SLV) 8.80
HEAT 7: Filipe Toledo (BRA) 15.77 DEF. Ian Gouveia (BRA) 10.90, Alan Cleland (MEX) 10.34
HEAT 8: Griffin Colapinto (USA) 14.87 DEF. Matthew McGillivray (RSA) 13.10, Cole Houshmand (USA) 9.33
HEAT 9: Kanoa Igarashi (JPN) 13.60 DEF. Seth Moniz (HAW) 8.87, Imaikalani deVault (HAW) 7.80
HEAT 10: Leonardo Fioravanti (ITA) 12.50 DEF. Crosby Colapinto (USA) 9.04, Liam O’Brien (AUS) 8.77
HEAT 11: Jordy Smith (RSA) 12.87 DEF. Joel Vaughan (AUS) 9.40, Ryan Callinan (AUS) 4.67
HEAT 12: Jake Marshall (USA) 12.16 DEF. Deivid Silva (BRA) 9.56, Miguel Pupo (BRA) 9.20Surf City El Salvador Pro Men’s Elimination Round Matchups:
HEAT 1: Miguel Pupo (BRA) vs. Edgard Groggia (BRA) vs. Bryan Perez (SLV)
HEAT 2: Liam O’Brien (AUS) vs. Alejo Muniz (BRA) vs. Levi Slawson (USA)
HEAT 3: Cole Houshmand (USA) vs. Alan Cleland (MEX) vs. Ian Gentil (HAW)
HEAT 4: Ryan Callinan (AUS) vs. Imaikalani deVault (HAW) vs. Samuel Pupo (BRA)

PRIOR UPDATES BELOW
Surf City El Salvador Pro Is ON with Men’s Opening Round and Women’s Opening Round Competition Began at 6:33 a.m. CST (2:30am HI Time)
Remaining Men’s Opening Round Followed by Women’s Opening Round
Men’s and Women’s Elimination Round on Standby
Watch Live at WorldSurfLeague.com

Pictured: Today, Heat 5 of the men’s Opening Round will take to the water first at the Surf City El Salvador Pro. Credit: WSL / Aaron Hughes

PUNTA ROCA, La Libertad, El Salvador (Thursday, April 3, 2025) – The Surf City El Salvador Pro, Stop No. 4 of the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour (CT), is ON. Starting at 6:33 a.m. CST, competition will begin with Heat 5 of the men’s Opening Round followed by the women’s Opening Round with 30-minute heats. Men’s and women’s Elimination Round are on standby.

The action picks up with Heat 5 of the men’s Opening Round featuring former World Title runner-up Ethan Ewing (AUS) facing 2025 CT Rookie standout Marco Mignot (FRA) and former WSL World Junior runner-up Levi Slawson (USA). In Heat 6, current World No. 1 Italo Ferreira (BRA) and El Salvador’s own Bryan Perez (SLV) await a rematch of their 2024 Elimination Round. Ferreira and Perez will face Rookie George Pittar (AUS) to secure spots in the Round of 32.

Former El Salvador Pro winners Filipe Toledo (BRA) and Griffin Colapinto (USA) are set to make their respective debuts. Also waiting to take on Punta Roca include current World No. 7 Leonardo Fioravanti (ITA) and World No. 8 Kanoa Igarashi (JPN).

Current World No. 2 Molly Picklum (AUS), Rookie Bella Kenworthy (USA), and CT replacement surfer Nadia Erostarbe (ESP) will kick off the women’s Opening Round. In Heat 2, 2023 World Champion Caroline Marks (USA) will begin her campaign for a potential third-straight El Salvador Pro win. The 23-year-old will face event wildcard Alyssa Spencer (USA) and 2022 event runner-up Lakey Peterson (USA).

Heat 3 will feature current World No. 1 Caity Simmers (USA) facing Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW) and event wildcard Kirra Pinkerton (USA). To complete the Opening Rounds, CT Rookie Erin Brooks (CAN) will face 2024 Rookie of the Year Sawyer Lindblad (USA), and CT veteran Isabella Nichols (AUS).

Surf City El Salvador Pro Men’s Opening Round Matchups (Heats 5-12):
HEAT 5: Ethan Ewing (AUS) vs. Marco Mignot (FRA) vs. Levi Slawson (USA)
HEAT 6: Italo Ferreira (BRA) vs. George Pittar (AUS) vs. Bryan Perez (SLV)
HEAT 7: Filipe Toledo (BRA) vs. Ian Gouveia (BRA) vs. Alan Cleland (MEX)
HEAT 8: Griffin Colapinto (USA) vs. Cole Houshmand (USA) vs. Matthew McGillvray (RSA)
HEAT 9: Kanoa Igarashi (JPN) vs. Seth Moniz (HAW) vs. Imaikalani deVault (HAW)
HEAT 10: Leonardo Fioravanti (ITA) vs. Liam O’Brien (AUS) vs. Crosby Colapinto (USA)
HEAT 11: Jordy Smith (RSA) vs. Joel Vaughan (AUS) vs. Ryan Callinan (AUS)
HEAT 12: Miguel Pupo (BRA) vs. Jake Marshall (USA) vs. Deivid Silva (BRA)Surf City El Salvador Pro Women’s Opening Round Matchups:
HEAT 1: Molly Picklum (AUS) vs. Bella Kenworthy (USA) vs. Nadia Erostarbe (ESP)
HEAT 2: Caroline Marks (USA) vs. Lakey Peterson (USA) vs. Alyssa Spencer (USA)
HEAT 3: Caitlin Simmers (USA) vs. Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW) vs. Kirra Pinkerton (USA)
HEAT 4: Gabriela Bryan (HAW) vs. Vahine Fierro (FRA) vs. Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS)
HEAT 5: Tyler Wright (AUS) vs. Brisa Hennessy (CRC) vs. Luana Silva (BRA)
HEAT 6: Sawyer Lindblad (USA) vs. Erin Brooks (CAN) vs. Isabella Nichols (AUS)

PRIOR UPDATES BELOW

Off for the Day, Next Call Apr 3, 2025 6:15 AM CST for Day2 of Surf City El Salvador Pro
Men’s Opening Round Started at 8:03 AM Wednesday CST (4 hours ahead of Hawaii)
Fun 2-4′ and slightly chunky and sectiony. SNN
Followed by Women’s Opening Round and Women’s Elimination Round on Standby
Watch LIVE at WorldSurfLeague.com

Pictured: Ahead of the Surf City El Salvador Pro, Caity Simmers (USA), Alyssa Spencer (USA), Gabriela Bryan (HAW), Erin Brooks (CAN), and Brisa Hennessy (CRC) spent the morning with the next generation of El Salvador surfers yesterday at WSL Rising Tides. Credit: WSL / Emma Sharon

PUNTA ROCA, La Libertad, El Salvador (Wednesday, April 2, 2025) – The Surf City El Salvador Pro, Stop No. 4 of the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour (CT) is ON starting at 8:03 a.m. CST. Competition will begin with the men’s Opening Round, followed by the women’s Opening Round with 35 minute heats. El Salvador’s Punta Roca will offer clean three-to-four-foot surf.

The men’s Opening Round will kick off the 2025 Surf City El Salvador Pro with a world-class battle of 2025 breakthrough contender Rio Waida (INA) taking on CT veterans Connor O’Leary (JPN) and Alejo Muniz (BRA).

Redemption will be in full swing for many, including Yago Dora (BRA) following his runner-up performance last year against eventual World Champion John John Florence (USA). Dora enters El Salvador with an event win in Portugal. He will face CT Rookie Jackson Bunch (HAW) and Ian Gentil (HAW) in Heat 4. Heat 6 will feature a rematch of last year’s Elimination Round upset with event wildcard Bryan Perez (SLV) and current World No. 1 Italo Ferreira (BRA). They’ll be up against CT Rookie George Pittar (AUS).

Former event winners Filipe Toledo (BRA) and Griffin Colapinto (USA) will look to channel their previous success starting with the Opening Round. Heat 7 will feature a matchup of the former World Champion Toledo against CT Rookie Alan Cleland (MEX), and fellow Brazilian Ian Gouveia (BRA). Colapinto will face Cole Houshmand (USA) and Matthew McGillvray (RSA).

The women’s Opening Round will start with perennial World Title threat Molly Picklum (AUS), Rookie standout Bella Kenworthy (USA), and CT replacement surfer Nadia Erostarbe (ESP). In Heat 2, Surf City El Salvador Pro’s back-to-back winner Caroline Marks (USA) has eyes on earning her third win at La Punta. Marks earned her first win of the season at the MEO Rip Curl Pro Portugal, and hopes to continue her momentum into Stop No. 4. First, she’ll have to face 2022 event runner-up Lakey Peterson (USA) and event wildcard, former CT competitor, Alyssa Spencer (USA).

Last year’s event runner-up Gabriela Bryan (HAW) will look to go one better at Punta Roca, beginning with her matchup against Rookie Vahine Fierro (FRA) and CT veteran Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS). The 2022 Rookie of the Year, Bryan, is fresh off a runner-up finish in Portugal, and will look to earn valuable points in El Salvador. To complete the Opening Rounds, CT Rookie Erin Brooks (CAN) will face 2024 Rookie of the Year Sawyer Lindblad (USA) and Isabella Nichols (AUS), who returns to compete in El Salvador for the first time since 2022.

Watch the Surf City El Salvador Pro LIVE at WorldSurfLeague.com.

Surf City El Salvador Pro Men’s Opening Round Matchups:
HEAT 1: Rio Waida (INA) vs. Connor O’Leary (JPN) vs. Alejo Muniz (BRA)
HEAT 2: Jack Robinson (AUS) vs. Joao Chianca (BRA) vs. Edgar Groggia (BRA)
HEAT 3: Barron Mamiya (HAW) vs. Ramzi Boukhiam (MAR) vs. Samuel Pupo (BRA)
HEAT 4: Yago Dora (BRA) vs. Jackson Bunch (HAW) vs. Ian Gentil (HAW)
HEAT 5: Ethan Ewing (AUS) vs. Marco Mignot (FRA) vs. Levi Slawson (USA)
HEAT 6: Italo Ferreira (BRA) vs. George Pittar (AUS) vs. Bryan Perez (SLV)
HEAT 7: Filipe Toledo (BRA) vs. Ian Gouveia (BRA) vs. Alan Cleland (MEX)
HEAT 8: Griffin Colapinto (USA) vs. Cole Houshmand (USA) vs. Matthew McGillvray (RSA)
HEAT 9: Kanoa Igarashi (JPN) vs. Seth Moniz (HAW) vs. Imaikalani deVault (HAW)
HEAT 10: Leonardo Fioravanti (ITA) vs. Liam O’Brien (AUS) vs. Crosby Colapinto (USA)
HEAT 11: Jordy Smith (RSA) vs. Joel Vaughan (AUS) vs. Ryan Callinan (AUS)
HEAT 12: Miguel Pupo (BRA) vs. Jake Marshall (USA) vs. Deivid Silva (BRA)Surf City El Salvador Pro Women’s Opening Round Matchups:
HEAT 1: Molly Picklum (AUS) vs. Bella Kenworthy (USA) vs. Nadia Erostarbe (ESP)
HEAT 2: Caroline Marks (USA) vs. Lakey Peterson (USA) vs. Alyssa Spencer (USA)
HEAT 3: Caitlin Simmers (USA) vs. Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW) vs. Kirra Pinkerton (USA)
HEAT 4: Gabriela Bryan (HAW) vs. Vahine Fierro (FRA) vs. Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS)
HEAT 5: Tyler Wright (AUS) vs. Brisa Hennessy (CRC) vs. Luana Silva (BRA)
HEAT 6: Sawyer Lindblad (USA) vs. Erin Brooks (CAN) vs. Isabella Nichols (AUS)

Watch LIVE
The Surf City El Salvador Pro will hold a competition window from Wednesday, April 2 through Saturday, April 12, 2025. The event will be broadcast LIVE on WorldSurfLeague.com and the free WSL App. Check out more ways to watch from the WSL’s broadcast partners.